Key Competencies

Job Role Summary

The Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) will be responsible for enforcing public safety codes in Marion County, specifically those related to lead-based paint hazards. This position will require you to have or obtain a valid lead inspection and risk assessor license within six months of employment. The EHS conducts lead inspections and risk assessments on pre-1978 housing units and child-occupied facilities. The EHS provides a written report detailing the findings of such inspection, suggesting corrective action where warranted, monitoring work done on the units, and conducting clearance examinations. The EHS must work closely with the department staff to coordinate services in homes where lead-poisoned children live. (Strongly preferred basic knowledge of home construction.)

Essential Duties

LEAD INSPECTIONS AND RISK ASSESSMENTS 50%

• Conducts on-site lead inspections and risk assessments on pre-1978 homes
• Prepare detailed written reports of inspection findings for responsible parties.
• Conduct consumer product testing.

CODE INTERPRETATION AND ENFORCEMENT 20%

• Interpret and enforce relevant codes, ordinances, and statutes regarding housing and safety.
• Issue notices of violations and recommendations for corrective action based on initial inspection and results.
• Reinspect properties to ensure compliance with recommendations.

Associated Job Duties

DOCUMENTATION AND EVIDENCE GATHERING 15%

• Maintain accurate documentation in relevant databases.
• Gather evidence and serve as a professional witness in legal settings.

COLLABORATION AND COMMUNICATION 15%

• Coordinate with department staff and other agencies to address lead hazards in homes with lead-poisoned children.
• Attend health fairs and neighborhood meetings, prepare reports, and engage with community members.

• participates in public health emergency preparedness exercises and in the response to public health emergencies, as directed.
• participates in a minimum of two H.O.P.E. events totaling a minimum of eight (8) hours annually
• This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The employee may be asked to perform other duties as needed to support departmental and organizational goals.

Qualifications

Required: Bachelor’s degree in a related field AND 1 year of related experience (lead, asbestos, construction, environmental health, housing/healthy homes, inspections, abatement),

Licenses/Certifications Required

Required: Indiana issued valid and current driver’s license, good driving record, current automobile insurance and access to reliable personal transportation for work purposes.

Required (Obtainable): Valid Indiana Lead Inspector and Risk Assessor license or obtain one within 6 months of hire.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Basic knowledge of home construction.
• Knowledge of environmental sciences and environmental public health principles.
• Knowledge of code enforcement techniques and evidence gathering.
• Ability to interpret and accurately apply ordinances.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and web based.
• Self-starter capable of working independently.
• Motivated and able to shift daily work plan as priorities change.
• Effective coordinator with internal staff and key outside constituents.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work and meet strict deadlines.
• Professional attire and appearance required.

Working Environment

• General office setting in health department facilities, as well as community sites, including clients' homes, apartments, and other private property.
• Work performed in the community is sometimes subject to inclement weather conditions.
• Travel to and from field locations, sometimes in high-crime areas.